'This scale of pub closures would be a wrecking ball for the economy, job market, and for our communities...

CALLS FOR GOVERNMENT TO CUT ONE OF PUB SECTOR'S MOST 'CRUSHING COSTS' OR FACE 230 CLOSURES IN OUR REGION AND 2,000 NATIONALLY

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THE West Midlands, including Staffordshire, could lose approximately five pubs a week, according to new research from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).

Across the region, a total of 230 pubs - the equivalent of 1,009 jobs — could close next year unless the Government cuts one of the sector's biggest costs, the BBPA warns.

The trade association said that the sector is heading into a “perfect storm” in 2026, driven by the planned withdrawal of business rates relief and the upcoming revaluation of business properties, both leading to even higher bills.